Opuah Abeikwen

The Alliance for Science has revealed it will lead collaborative efforts in establishing a molecular biology center of excellence at the University of Calabar in Nigeria. This was inspired by an insight into the extraordinary contributions of the university’s Department of Genetics and Biotechnology to the development of biotechnology research. The department boasts a kitted molecular biology laboratory, a significant milestone since the department was created 22 years ago.

Nigeria has commenced a historic process of leading other African nations on smart and innovative agriculture with the recent application seeking commercial release of the genetically modified insect-resistant cowpea. If approved, the pod borer-resistant (PBR) cowpea will become the nation’s first genetically modified food crop. It is expected to increase yields and massively reduce the use of pesticides in cowpea production.

Dr. Rufus Ebegba, at the microphone, addresses the first Science Cafe Nigeria. Photo by Yvonne Etinosa CODE Nigeria has launched an informal information sharing platform known as Science Cafe in an effort to build science literacy, advance innovation and overcome public fears about technology. Science and technology continue to play a center role in the drive to build a sustainble society.